Hanse 355 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hanse 355 emerged in 2009, a product of Hanse Yachts' ongoing collaboration with Judel/Vrolijk & Co., a partnership that began in 1999 and has become a hallmark of Hanse's design approach. Hanse, founded in 1993 by Michael Schmidt, established itself by focusing on innovation and thoughtful design, with a core vision to make sailing simple and enjoyable, even for single-handed operation. The company's manufacturing ethos during this era emphasized combining performance with comfort, a principle clearly reflected in the 355. Hanse yachts are known for incorporating features like the self-tacking jib to simplify handling and for their clean decks and spacious cockpits. While the Hanse 355 maintained a consistent design throughout its production run, it offered various interior layout options to cater to different owner preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hanse 355 is designed to offer a lively yet manageable sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.47, the yacht exhibits good performance in lighter winds, allowing it to maintain momentum and speed even when the breeze is subtle. Its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 200.2 places it in the medium displacement category, indicating a balanced design that provides both comfortable motion in a seaway and respectable speed.

While its ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.29 is on the lower side, modern Hanse designs, including the 355, achieve stability through efficient hull forms, featuring a bulb keel and spade rudder, rather than relying solely on a high ballast percentage. Owners have noted that the 355 offers good performance, particularly downwind due to its large main sail and high rig. Its self-tacking jib simplifies tacking, contributing to its reputation for easy and low-effort boat handling, making it suitable for short-handed sailing. The yacht's responsive handling and balance are frequently praised, allowing for confident navigation in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hanse 355 is designed for comfort and practicality, offering various layout options to maximize living space and utility. The yacht typically features a bright and airy salon, a well-appointed galley, and comfortable sleeping quarters. One notable option available was a two-cabin version, which allowed for a completely separate shower cubicle and a more spacious head. Another configuration included a larger V-berth in the bow cabin and an increased navigation table, with some versions even offering a third double cabin to accommodate more guests. Hanse is known for providing unique solutions for comfort and storage, aiming to create a home-like experience on board. The finish quality often features modern materials and design, reflecting Hanse's emphasis on clean lines and functional spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hanse 355 generally appreciate its blend of elegance, speed, and superb sailing characteristics, often highlighting its ease of handling, especially with the standard self-tacking jib and wheel steering. Many consider it a modern, seaworthy sailboat that perfectly combines comfort and performance for relaxed trips and offshore holidays. Common issues reported by owners, as is often the case with new boats, can sometimes include minor initial problems related to electronics, engines, or original deck fittings needing re-bedding. However, the overall sentiment points to a well-built vessel that provides an appealing sailing experience, with the flexibility for owners to customize their yachts to their preferences, a fundamental aspect of Hanse's engineering philosophy.